Siva Afi festival
Samoa, formed of ten tropical islands scattered in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, has a busy schedule of traditional and modern events taking place this summer. The first is a centuries-old fire knife festival that warriors once used to showcase their skills. Today, you can watch competitors swinging a flamed knife from the corners of their mouths. The initial stages start on June 27 and 28, with the final taking place on June 29.Tickets £20 (including dinner). www.samoa.travel

Samoa Half Iron
Samoans have a reputation for their resilience and love of competitive sports, so it was only a matter of time before they got involved in the world’s current love affair with triathlons. The first long-distance triathlon takes place on August 10 on the main island of Upolu, the last home of Robert Louis Stevenson. It starts with a 2km swim course in the warm waters of Apia Harbour, followed by a 90km ride passing through villages from east to north Upolu, finally finishing with a 21km run through capital city Apia.Entrance fee £127. For tour packages, visit www.samoahalfironman.com

Teuila Festival
Samoan’s annual seven-day festival is an authentic one-stop shop for any tourist who wants to learn about Samoan culture. Watch the art of Samoan tattooing, a Miss Samoa contest, a fautasi race on longboats, once used as a means of transportations across the islands of Samoa, all while snacking on local specialities such as okra, fish marinated in lemon juice or Lu’au, made from the leaves of the taro plant and coconut cream.www.teuilafestival.com